You already know the sun can burn your skin, but did you know it can also harm your eyes? From short-term irritation to long-term vision problems, UV exposure plays a bigger role than most people realize.
The good news? UV-related eye damage is preventable. Whether caring for your vision or looking out for your family, this is everything you need to know to keep your eyes safe.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an invisible energy from the sun. There are three types of UV rays:
UV rays can hit and harm several parts of your eyes, including:
If your eyes take in too much UV radiation, it can lead to a range of problems. Some happen quickly, while others build up over time. Just like your skin can get burned by the sun, your eyes can, too. However, you may not realize it until the damage is done.
Knowing what to watch for can help you catch issues early and get the proper care.
If you have spent time in the sun without eye protection and start noticing any of the following symptoms, UV rays may be to blame.
Some symptoms point to more serious UV-related damage and need quick attention:
If you notice any of these, do not wait. Call your eye doctor or visit an eye care center as soon as possible.
Photokeratitis happens when your cornea receives too much UV radiation in a short amount of time. Think of it as a sunburn on the surface of your eye. It is most common after long hours on snow, sand, or water (places where sunlight reflects directly into your eyes).
Symptoms include:
It usually goes away in a day or two, but can be painful. Recovery often means resting your eyes, avoiding light, and using artificial tears or cold compresses to ease discomfort.
Pterygium is a pink, triangle-shaped growth that starts on the white of your eye and slowly grows toward the cornea. It is commonly linked to people who spend a lot of time in bright sunlight, especially in windy or dusty environments (like surfers, skiers, or outdoor workers).
Symptoms include:
Pterygium can sometimes be stabilized, but in more severe cases, surgery may be needed.
A cataract forms when the clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. Over time, this makes it harder to see clearly. While aging is the most common cause, UV exposure speeds up the process. The lens absorbs UV light, and repeated exposure can cause the proteins inside to break down and clump together.
Signs of cataracts:
Wearing UV-protective eyewear can help delay the development of cataracts, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Age-related macular degeneration affects the retina (the part of the eye that helps you see fine detail). UV light may increase the risk of AMD by damaging cells in the macula, the center part of the retina.
Early signs include:
This damage builds up slowly, so regular eye exams are key to catching it early.
Long-term UV exposure also increases the risk of eye cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma. These cases are rare, but the risk grows if your eyes are unprotected during high-exposure activities.
Possible signs include:
UV rays can affect anyone, but some people face a much higher risk because of age, lifestyle, or how their eyes respond to sunlight.
If you or someone in your family fits into one of these groups, it is especially important to take steps to protect your eyes or theirs.
Most UV-related eye damage is preventable. With just a few simple habits, you can shield your eyes from harmful rays.
Not all sunglasses are created equal. When shopping for a pair, always check the label. You want lenses that say “100% UVA and UVB protection” or “UV400.”
See Choosing the Best UV Protection Sunglasses for a deeper dive.
If you wear contacts, ask your eye doctor if they offer UV-blocking lenses. These provide added protection, but only for the part of the eye they cover.
For full protection:
A good hat can reduce the amount of UV light that reaches your eyes by up to 50%. Look for a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face and eyes.
Best picks:
The sun’s rays are strongest during the middle of the day. If you can, plan outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. When that is not possible, seek out shade and wear full protection.
Just because the sun is hidden does not mean your eyes are safe. Up to 90% of UV rays can pass through clouds, so your eyes still absorb harmful light even on overcast days.
That is why experts recommend wearing UV-protective eyewear every day, not just when it is sunny. Think of it like brushing your teeth. It is a daily habit that protects you long-term.
Protecting your eyes from UV damage is not just about wearing sunglasses. It is about having the right care, guidance, and support at every stage of life.
At Heart of Texas Eye Care, we are here to help you protect and preserve your vision, starting with expert care you can trust.
UV damage can build up slowly, and you may not notice a problem until it affects your vision. That is why regular eye exams are so important.
We use advanced technology to examine your eyes' health and ensure you are getting the care you need before small problems become bigger.
Whether you wear glasses, contact lenses, or both, we offer prescription solutions that include built-in UV protection. Our team will help you choose the right lenses for your needs, lifestyle, and sun exposure – so your eyes stay protected every day, in every season.
From kids who love to play outside to adults who work under the Texas sun, everyone deserves clear guidance on protecting their eyes.
Your vision is worth protecting. Let Heart of Texas Eye Care help you do it right.
We serve patients in Dripping Springs, Austin, Kyle, Bee Cave, Marble Falls, and the surrounding areas.